Streamlight Warns of Risk of Using Off-Brand Batteries

Streamlight, Inc., a leading provider of high-performance flashlights for industrial, fire and rescue, law enforcement professionals and sporting enthusiasts, today issued another warning about purchasing and using inferior quality lithium 123A batteries with its flashlight products or other products. Use of off-brand lithium batteries may present a risk of leakage, fire, explosion or serious personal injury, company officials said.

“Streamlight recommends only the use of U.S. made, high quality lithium batteries with its products, including Streamlight Battery No. CR123A, Panasonic Battery No. CR123A or Duracell Battery No. 123,” said Ray Sharrah, Streamlight’s Chief Operating Officer. “The use of other batteries, or the mixing of used and new or different brand batteries, could result in fire, explosion or burn hazards.”

Sharrah said that a Houston police officer suffered minor injuries on October 4 when a Streamlight flashlight he was using during an investigation reportedly exploded while in use. The flashlight was powered by off-brand Chinese batteries, which were the source of the explosion.

“Streamlight lithium CR123A batteries are manufactured to stringent quality control standards, incorporating safety features which ensure they will not overheat in our high-performance flashlights,” explained Sharrah. “By using quality U.S. made lithium battery brands exclusively, Streamlight product users can be assured that they can operate their flashlight products safely at all times.” He added that users should never misuse, short circuit, improperly store or discard, disassemble or heat any CR123 batteries above 212 F (100 C).